The Old Town Bridge Tower stands guard over the Charles Bridge, a sentinel of centuries past. The Charles Bridge, built in the 14th century, is a majestic stone arch bridge that spans the Vltava River, connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town. Over the centuries, it has witnessed countless stories unfold, wars waged, and lives lived. The bridge was commissioned by King Charles IV, who envisioned it as a grand symbol of his reign and a vital artery for Prague. It took over 45 years to complete, but the bridge, initially called Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge, has become one of the city’s most beloved icons.
The bridge is adorned with 30 Baroque statues of saints, most notably St. John of Nepomuk, the patron saint of Bohemia. Legend has it that St. John was thrown into the Vltava River from the bridge by order of King Wenceslas IV. However, this is just one of many fascinating tales associated with the Charles Bridge. Tourists and locals alike gather to marvel at the bridge’s architectural splendor, soak in the bustling atmosphere, and, of course, touch the statue of St. John of Nepomuk, hoping for a bit of good luck and the promise of a return to Prague.